School Gardens by P. G.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 2, 1908

School Gardens

By P. G.

THE year has rolled around, and the time “to make garden” is again here. This brings to our teachers everywhere a new line of thought in the work of the year. This new work should come as a source of delight to each teacher; for, if rightly conducted, it gives excellent opportunities for nature study, and in a practical way—and enjoyable, too.

The plans for school gardens should be well matured. It is good that they be talked over with the pupils until there is that enthusiasm created which lasts. The vast majority of our schools are confronted with the problem of the summer vacation when considering the question of the school garden, and indeed the whole agricultural problem. But in nearly all instances if the motive for having the garden is correct, it is possible to make arrangements for the care of the garden during the summer vacation, and for gathering the fruit in the fall.

No better motive can be suggested for the children in this work than the missionary one. It is possible for the pupils in our church and intermediate schools to obtain a very substantial sum of money as the result of their efforts in gardening. A definite field to which these funds are to go may be chosen, and it may be studied from time to time throughout the summer with the children. The co-operation of the parents in this good work should be heartily enlisted. This subject will certainly form a most excellent one for an enthusiastic parents’ meeting.

P. G.